Flowing is the note-taking method used in debate. Each speech gets its own column, and you write arguments vertically down the page. When a debater responds to an argument, you write the response in the next column across from the original argument — so you can see the back-and-forth.
BQ Speech Structure (NSDA):
| Speech |
Time |
Who Speaks |
| Aff Constructive (AC) | 5 min | Affirmative — Speaker 1 |
| Neg Constructive (NC) | 5 min | Negative — Speaker 1 |
| Question Segment 1 (QS₁) | 3 min | Aff asks first, then alternates |
| Aff Rebuttal (AR) | 4 min | Affirmative — Speaker 2 |
| Neg Rebuttal (NR) | 4 min | Negative — Speaker 2 |
| Question Segment 2 (QS₂) | 3 min | Aff asks first, then alternates |
| Aff Consolidation (ACON) | 3 min | Affirmative — Speaker 1 |
| Neg Consolidation (NCON) | 3 min | Negative — Speaker 1 |
| Aff Rationale (ARAT) | 3 min | Affirmative — Speaker 2 |
| Neg Rationale (NRAT) | 3 min | Negative — Speaker 2 |
Tips for this tool:
• The 8 columns below are the 8 speeches in BQ. Question Segments appear as collapsible notes below the grid. Type notes in the active (highlighted) column as that speech happens.
• The constructives (columns 1–2, 5 min each) present each side's case. Aff argues the resolution is true; Neg argues it's actively false. Listen for thesis statements, definitions, and main contentions. BQ cases typically emphasize philosophical reasoning and evidence.
• The rebuttals (columns 3–4, 4 min each) are where real clash happens. Each side attacks the other's case and defends their own.
• The consolidation speeches (columns 5–6, 3 min each) reduce the debate to its core elements. New arguments are discouraged. Good consolidation speeches identify the 1–2 most important clashes and explain why their side wins them.
• The rationale speeches (columns 7–8, 3 min each) are the final word from each side — summarize central arguments. No new arguments allowed. This should be the clearest explanation of why the resolution is true or false.
• Question Segments (QS₁, QS₂) are free-flowing Q&A where Aff asks the first question, then it alternates. They don't get flow columns — they appear as collapsible note areas below the grid. Most judges don't take notes during question segments, but you can if something important comes up.
• The Negative must argue the resolution is actively false, not just refute the Affirmative. This is a key difference from other debate formats.
• Speed and jargon are discouraged in BQ — a conversational tone is preferred.
• Use abbreviations freely — "A" for Aff, "N" for Neg, "→" for "leads to", etc. Only you need to read these.
• Don't try to write everything. Listen for the main claims and jot a few keywords for each.
• If one side doesn't answer an argument, leave a gap — that's called a "drop" and it usually counts against them.
• Use Ctrl+→ to advance to the next speech, or tap the speech pills above.
• Spacebar starts/stops the timer (when you're not typing in a flow area).